Your day begins with a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle as we pick you up right from your hotel and set off on a scenic 75-minute drive. As the city gives way to the countryside, anticipation builds for the experiences ahead. Our first stop sets the perfect tone for the day — a traditional South Indian breakfast prepared the authentic way. Freshly steamed idlis, crisp dosas, aromatic filter coffee and more… every bite is a warm welcome to the region’s rich culinary heritage. This isn’t just breakfast — it’s an experience. And it’s important too, because we want you to be fully fuelled and ready for the adventure ahead.

After breakfast, your journey continues to Shravanabelagola, a remarkable 2,300-year-old town long celebrated as a seat of learning, spirituality, and Jain pilgrimage. Revered as one of the most important centres of Jainism, it offers a rare glimpse into one of India’s oldest living faiths. With your expert guide, you’ll discover Jainism’s timeless philosophy — its reverence for all living beings and its lasting influence on Indian culture and society. Then begins an unforgettable ascent. You’ll climb about 650 steps barefoot or in socks up the sacred Vindhyagiri Hill, a spiritual experience in itself. At the summit, a breathtaking sight awaits: the 1,000-year-old monolithic statue of Gomateshwara, one of the tallest in the world. Standing before this awe-inspiring sculpture, with the lush countryside stretching out below, you’ll feel the powerful blend of history, faith, and beauty that defines this extraordinary place.

Your next stop is the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Hoysaleshwara Temple at Halebeedu — an extraordinary masterpiece of Hoysala architecture, renowned for its unmatched intricacy and craftsmanship, making it one of the finest examples of temple art in the world. With your expert guide, you’ll step back into the 12th century as the temple’s carvings come alive through stories and legends etched in stone. The outer walls stretch over 200 meters, every inch adorned with Hindu deities, scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, elephants and horses, floral scrolls, and mythical creatures. Unlike many temples dedicated to a single deity, this shrine overflows with artistic abundance. As your guide reveals its layers of symbolism, craftsmanship, and royal patronage, you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the genius of the Hoysala sculptors. The scale, precision, and storytelling in stone make this visit a truly unforgettable highlight of your journey.

You’ll pause for a sumptuous local lunch at a quiet, serene spot — the perfect mid-day break on this day of discovery. Surrounded by calm and local charm, it’s a chance to relax, savour authentic regional flavours, and soak in the atmosphere before continuing your adventure.